Banned Books Week!
This week marks an important time in the literary year. It's Banned Books Week! Our nation has a history of upholding the freedom of speech and the freedom of the press since we became a nation in 1776. Even still, literature often goes against challenges based on content of controversial religious, political, sexual, or social issues. Everything from classics like To Kill a Mockingbirdand Lord of the Flies to modern favorites like The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian and Harry Potter have faced challenges in schools, libraries, and other public-access arenas. Banned Books Week recognizes "shared support of the freedom to seek and to express ideas, even those some consider unorthodox or unpopular" (American Library Association, "Banned Books Week"). The American Library Association (ALA) strives to promote equitable access and national literacy. Join in the celebration of our freedom to read what interests us and to write what matters to us!
